MINEHEAD Second XI were at home to table toppers Taunton Indian in Division Three of the Somerset Cricket League on Saturday afternoon when they eventually went down in a run-chase.

Before the start of the match the players from both sides observed a minutes silence to remember those who lost their lives in the Air India tragedy earlier in the week.

The visitors won the toss and after choosing to bat first posted 257 for five from their 40 overs, a total which was based upon a second wicket partnership between Samju Mohanan who made 92 and Santin Koonampacal who hit 77.

The pick of the Minehead bowlers was Renjeesh Krishnan who claimed 3 for 46 from his eight overs, while there was one each for James Davis and Ananthapadmanabhan Rajan.

When the home side replied they were given a solid start by wicket-keeper Andrew Stevens who made 34 and young Ali Ahern who hit 27.

Later in the order Braden Taylor made 31 and batting at number seven Rajneesh Krishnan top scored with 43 which included four 4s and two 6s. In the end, however, the home side were all out for 210 in 37.5 overs, giving the visitors victory by 47 runs.

Pick of the bowlers for Taunton Indian was Chandra Raveendran who took three for 34 from his eight overs, one of which was a maiden, while Anoop George claimed two for 33 from his eight overs with one maiden.

This coming weekend Minehead Second XI, who are sixth in the Division Three table with 134 points from their six games, three of which have been won, are at home to Wiveliscombe First XI.

Saturday’s visitors find themselves bottom of the table with 100 points from their six matches, with only one victory so far.